Greater New Orleans

d.b.a

d.b.a. is a triple threat: a bar that features a diverse bill of killer local and touring music, conveniently located on the Frenchmen Street music stroll, with an impressive menu of premium spirits, wines and beers on tap and in the bottle. The club is notable for having one of the best sound systems in any New Orleans small venue; locals and tourists alike come out for standing weekly gigs from performers like the Treme Brass Band and Glen David Andrews, knowing the drinks and the show both will be top-notch. Watch the calendar for one-off shows from touring rock 'n' roll acts and blues and soul veterans. It's also one of comparatively few music venues in town that stands on its own as a serious place to drink. In addition to a rotating selection of microbrews and imports on tap, d.b.a. offers about 100 bottled beer selections, about 40 single-malt scotches, 40 tequilas, 30 rums and about 50 bourbons, ryes and Irish whiskeys.

Most nights offer a free happy hour set, at 6 or 7 p.m.; the Tin Men and the Palmetto Bug Stompers fill that slot weekly. Check the calendar for listings.

The barkeeps at d.b.a. are happy to serve whiskey-forward favorites like the Manhattan, Old Fashioned and New Orleans' own classic cocktail, the Sazerac. That said, the extensive spirits menu is largely intended for appreciation by slow-sipping on the rocks or with a water back. The current demand is trending toward rye whiskeys, especially the Bulleit brand, according to Michael Kohn, manager at the New Orleans d.b.a., but the menu caters to a variety of tastes.

Those seeking a nice scotch can choose among dozens of 10-year, 12-year and older selections, including popular brands such as Macallan, Balvenie, and Johnnie Walker Black Label. In bourbons, d.b.a. recently acquired Buffalo Trace Distillery's Elmer T. Lee after a brief dry period, and, on some nights, a lucky patron can find the distillery's prized Pappy Van Winkle 15-Year on the list.

Kohn recommends checking out less expensive but still very good bourbons like Four Roses Small Batch or Eagle Rare, which range from $8 to $10. On the Irish end, patrons gravitate to Powers and the ever-popular Jameson.

Live-music tip: For the more mature music or spirit lover, the early shows tend to attract a more professional crowd. Late shows tend to draw a rowdier, more youthful crowd. The bar sometimes sends out promotions via its Twitter (@dbaneworleans) and Facebook accounts. Cover charges vary, but typically are $10 or less, depending on the time, date and band.